For the most part, I've grown tired of zombie movies. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later remains sitting in my watchlist for some time. But, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, succeeded in subvert what I anticipated and proved remarkably enjoyable.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Growth
Among this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene where a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted when a van plows into the guest area. Out of the van, a very zombie-like individual emerges proceeding attacking the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a look back, allowing us to see the family before the tragedy occurred.
In contrast to many undead movies, The Elixir actually allows viewers enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a married mother whose ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a falling out among the two women. We also see her sibling, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who loves gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have lately cheated on Nes. This household head is Nes' father, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about only two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I became so engrossed in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I almost overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a negative, yet in the end worked well. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting viewers who each family member is, and how they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed me to relate to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style that often presents individuals just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its characters as flat, disposable victims for a horde of zombies to devour, so it's a real shock once events eventually deteriorate.
Evocative of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and the multiple household exchanges actually bring to mind the film Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring slightly dark comedy before taking a sudden shift into "holy shit" ground. These early moments don't focus too heavily on humor compared to Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough time to immerse in the setting prior to everything gets upended.
Unique Zombification Origin
This movie also offers a quite intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental laboratory incident or some sort of bioweapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent sample of Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided a bit about its origins, I wish the movie devoted additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a trusted supplier of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to include an extremely infectious virus. Despite the limited background, the impact this affliction produces on people is utterly disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's undead are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear very realistic, and they're practically guaranteed to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
More impressive than the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Of course, we see some instances of questionable choices (as in any good zombie movie), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and sharp. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, pierce it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest heavy object they find instead of standing still like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Family Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic subversion from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto resentment regarding his infidelity of their marriage vows. When the family becomes split up, they decide via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. But when Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been brewing over time. Nes isn't flawless, and her family—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable since the movie doesn't try to promote the notion that nearly dying instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters express appreciation for each other seem far more genuine.
Stereotypical Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to innovate, the conclusion is admittedly a bit stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight about family or society, as well. Rather, it's primarily delivering scares. But they're effective frights, and because the movie gives each character enough room to grow and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome is a captivating and enjoyable
